The Prime Minister has come under pressure over changes to Winter Fuel Payments
Keir Starmer has insisted his Government is supporting pensioners despite criticism over Winter Fuel Payments.
He came under pressure on the issue during Prime Minister’s Questions on Wednesday.
The PM said his Government was “committed to the triple lock”, which will put hundreds of pounds extra into the pockets of pensioners over the coming years.
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The triple lock was introduced by the Conservatives and ensures the state pension increases each year to match whatever is highest out of 2.5%, inflation or wage growth.
Starmer insisted the triple lock was here to stay under his Government, amid suggestions senior Tories believe the policy may need to change.
Conservative leader Kemi Badenoch sought to put the Prime Minister on the backfoot during Wednesday’s session, pressing him on whether he was wrong to axe Winter Fuel Payments for all but the poorest pensioners.
The issue has been brought back into focus following Reform UK’s dominant performance at the local elections.
The payments are worth up to £300 to help cover energy costs during the winter months.
They were previously given to all pensioners, but controversial changes last year mean only those on Pension Credit now receive the support.
This has left out millions of low-income households, effectively leaving them at least £200 worse off over winter.
Starmer, however, has pointed to the annual increase in the state pension, which he argues will largely offset this.
He also stated his Government needed to take difficult decisions in order to balance the economy.
There have been reports changes to Winter Fuel Payments have been discussed amid the backlash – and following Reform UK’s surge at the local elections.
However, Downing Street has dismissed talk of any changes.
